Military helicopters were spotted travelling over parts of East Lancashire yesterday evening, Thursday.

Taking to social media yesterday evening, September 21, and in the early hours of this morning, residents from across Clitheroe said they had heard loud noises coming from Apache and Wildcat helicopters.

Some said there were five spotted at around 7pm and it caused concern for residents who had no idea what was happening.

One person took to Facebook and said: "Woke at 1.01am by three very loud aircraft/helicopters flying over Chaigley. Thought the roof was coming in!"

It has since been confirmed by a spokesperson for the army that Apache and Wildcat helicopters have been conducting night flying training and it is vital.

They said: “Apache and Wildcat Helicopters from the three Army Air Corps Battle Group conducted routine night flying training in the northwest of England on Thursday night as part of Exercise COBRA WARRIOR.

“Training at night over large distances is vital for practising operational skills and cannot be replaced by training in daylight hours alone.

“Realistic and challenging training is essential to preparing our highly skilled aircrew for the full range of global operations.”

This is not the first time that Apache helicopters have been spotted flying in and around East Lancashire.

Earlier this week on Tuesday, residents also took to Facebook to share news about four helicopters flying over Rishton.

One man said it caused his dog to bark and others said their houses "shook".

People inspired by what they saw in the skies can find out more on the Army Air Corps website.

Within army aviation there are are number of roles, not all being Army Air Corps, but all essential.

They include pilot, aviation support officer and many others.

For more information visit https://www.army.mod.uk/